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HS Codes Chapter 78 — Lead

HS Chapter 78 covers lead and articles thereof — lead ingots, lead sheet, lead-acid battery scrap and lead pipes. For South African importers and exporters clearing through SARS, this chapter sits at the heart of everyday customs work at OR Tambo, Cape Town Container Terminal and Durban Harbour.

Every consignment under Chapter 78 must be declared on a SAD500 using the correct 8-digit tariff heading. The duty rate, rebates and any import permits all follow from that classification. A wrong tariff heading is the single most common reason a Chapter 78 shipment is held at the port of entry.

JLog coordinates customs clearance for Chapter 78 goods moving through Cape Town. We prepare the SAD500, manage the submission to SARS, and keep your classification defensible and your duty correct. Whether you are importing a one-off sample or running a regular container programme, we handle the paperwork so your consignment keeps moving. Browse the most-requested HS codes in Chapter 78 below, or request a quote for clearing your next consignment.

What Is HS Chapter 78?

HS Chapter 78 covers lead and articles thereof — including unwrought lead, lead plates, sheets, strip, foil, and tubes. South Africa imports lead for battery manufacturing, radiation shielding, and construction applications. Lead imports are subject to environmental regulations due to the metal’s toxicity.

Common Chapter 78 HS Codes

The most frequently used codes in this chapter for South African importers:

Import Duty and VAT for HS Chapter 78

Most goods in HS Chapter 78 attract import VAT of 15% plus applicable customs duty. Duty rates vary by subheading — use the links above to check the specific rate for your commodity, or contact JLog for a customs classification consultation.

Importing Chapter 78 Goods into South Africa

To import goods classified under Chapter 78 into South Africa, you must be registered with SARS as an importer. All goods must be declared on a SAD500 customs declaration. JLog’s DutyCheq service handles SARS importer registration, and our customs clearance team manages all SARS submissions.

Shipping Chapter 78 Goods with JLog

JLog handles lead product imports with proper hazardous material documentation and environmental compliance for this regulated metal.

Contact JLog: [email protected] | 021 300 6099

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Frequently Asked Questions

What duty applies to goods in HS Chapter 78?
Duty rates vary by subheading within HS Chapter 78. Use the HS code search above to find the specific rate, or contact JLog for a customs classification consultation.

Do I need a permit to import goods classified under HS Chapter 78?
Permit and compliance requirements vary by HS subheading and end-use within Chapter 78. Some lines may require ITAC import permits, product compliance certificates or origin certificates to claim a preferential rate. Check the individual HS code page or contact JLog for a per-product check.

Can JLog clear HS Chapter 78 goods through SARS for me?
Yes. JLog provides full customs clearance for all goods in HS Chapter 78, including document preparation, SARS submission, and query management. Contact us for a quote.

Related JLog Services

Last updated: 2026. Source: SARS Harmonised Tariff Schedule.

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